ALBANY, N.Y.— Legislation sponsored by David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) allowing crossbows to be used during hunting season passed the New York State Senate.
"Hunting in Upstate New York is a time honored tradition that thousands of New Yorkers enjoy each year,” said Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida). “Expanding hunting to include crossbows will enhance the opportunities available for sportsmen and women and will provide increased revenue to the state and our communities from licensing and tourism.”
Current law stipulates hunting with a crossbow is not permitted unless under very limited conditions where an individual is almost completely physically disabled. The new legislation will allow anyone to hunt with the weapon during regular big game season when most firearms are in use.
According to the bill, hunters will be able to use their regular gun season tags, and their muzzleloader tags in coordination with crossbow hunting.
If signed by the Governor, the legislation will go into effect on October 1 of this year. New York will be joining states like Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio who allow for the use of crossbows during hunting seasons.
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